THREE people have been charged in connection with more than 70 burglaries in Hampshire involving thefts of £500,000 worth of high-value cars.

Detectives are investigating 73 break-ins across Southampton, Hedge End, Eastleigh and Romsey.

Burglars made off with 23 luxury cars during the raids staged between July and February of this year.

Other property stolen included handbags and small electrical items.

Theo Smithard-Powell, 21, from Barham Road in Chiselhurst, Kent and woman Ellis McMillan, 18, from Alcantara Crescent in Southampton have been charged with conspiracy to commit dwelling burglary with intent to steal, conspiracy to steal and receiving stolen goods.

A third person Dale Ward, 21, from Lonsdale Close in Mottingham, London has been charged with Conspiracy to steal.

They will appear at Southampton Magistrates Court on Tuesday, December 16.